hockeyedge

Hello readers! I figured there’s no better time to start a hockey blog then smack dab in the middle of the Stanley Cup Finals. This is hands-down the best time to be a hockey fan. So let’s jump right into it…

Detroit leads Pittsburgh 2-0.

I didn’t expect the series to start like this. Did I think Detroit would take the first two games at home? Yes. Did I think it would be total domination with two shut-outs? No way. Detroit has accomplished this because of these three hockey fundamentals:

1. A well-rounded offensive attack. Detroit doesn’t have to rely on Zetterberg or Franzen to carry the team. 2nd and 3rd liners like Samuelsson and Filppula are stepping it up.

2. Air-tight defense. Anyone who can make Crosby look like just a flashy, AHL skater is tops in my book. Their presence at the net, their strong forecheck, etc. Everything is clicking perfectly with their blue-liners.

3. An unbelievable “god-like” goalie. Chris Osgood isn’t just good- he’s making history. With a playoff GAA of just 1.38, Osgood is unbeatable. He’s making beautiful saves and not giving any second chances.

The most amazing thing to me is that Pittsburgh had shown these fundamentals as well leading up to the finals. Unfortunately, their offense is tired and overmatched, their defense isn’t big or fast enough, and Fleury is giving up too many rebounds.

Don’t be surprised if the series doesn’t need to come back to Detroit…

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